Michael Creed (Cork North West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I want to tease out this issue by asking one further question. Regarding forming an opinion about the voice of the child and their best interests, a picture is painted over time through engagement with the child and the involvement of Tusla and other actors, some of whom might be family members. This is very often where my experience becomes complicated and frustrating. I refer to situations where other family members who believe that they have the best interests of the child at heart but who are, in a way, voices outside of the formal process become involved. It might be an aunt or some other relative. This question is relevant to all the witnesses' organisations. How extensive is the consultation with the broader family, rather than just listening to the voice of the child?